MANUSCRIPT
FORMAT SPECIFICATIONS:
Conflicting information abounds as to correct publisher format specifications.
In reality, there is no true "industry standard." However, common
sense dictates that if you want your manuscript to be seriously considered
for publication, it should be easy to read in terms of its appearance.
Your manuscript is not expected to look like a published book page.
Most publishers will automatically reject submissions that look pretty
but are difficult to read. 12 pt courier or new courier has been proven
to be the easiest font on the eyes. Why? Because it spreads individual
letters farther apart and reduces eye strain. True, courier font requires
more paper, but wouldn't you want to bear the minimal additional expense
if it improves your chances of success?
You can't go wrong by formatting your manuscript with:
one-inch
margins on all sides
double-space
courier
or new courier font no smaller than twelve-pitch
no more
than 26 lines per page
I
prefer this format as well if I am to be your book editor.
This format provides optimum space for notations on your manuscript,
so it will be easier for you to read my handwritten comments.
It is to your advantage in many respects to prepare your manuscript
this way.
Most
publishers also prefer that you incorporate the following:
Each
page following the title page should include a header which includes your
last name, manuscript title and page number.
Don't
right justify unless you're formatting your manuscript for a print-on-demand
publisher. Left justify instead.
Don't
underline words or sentences for emphasis; italicize instead. But avoid
excessive italics. This stands out negatively.
Indent
each paragraph, including the first one in each chapter, five spaces.
Break
down paragraphs that run longer than a half page to two or more smaller
ones. White space is more visually appealing
to
your reader.
Other appropriate format adjustments will be suggested during the course
of an edit.
Arts
Directory
BACK
TO HOME PAGE
|
